Remain united, Aquino urges OFWs in Independence Day message

President Benigno Aquino III over the weekend exhorted overseas Filipino workers to remain united as the nation prepares to mark Independence Day this coming week.

In his Independence Day message posted on the websites of some Philippine embassies abroad, Aquino reminded Filipinos of their forefathers' patriotism and bravery against injustice.

"May we remain united, like our forebears more than a hundred years ago, in working for an even more robust, equitably progressive Republic, and as we move forward, let us ensure that no Filipino is left behind as we journey on the straight and righteous path," he said in the message posted on the website of the Philippine embassy in Thailand.

The message was also posted on the Philippine Embassy in Japan website.

He added the 116th Philippine Independence Day should not just be part of the country’s "glorious and exciting narrative," but also a "reminder" for everyone that "we are our nation’s stewards of peace, equality, and prosperity, and that we are all bearers of a proud heritage, tasked to demonstrate integrity, transparency, and accountability in all our pursuits."

Also, Aquino said his administration continues to protect this hard-won liberty while surmounting new challenges in "our ever-evolving milieu."

These include "eliminating greed and corruption from society; addressing the needs of our citizens with opportunities for education, healthcare, employment, livelihood, and other social services; and maintaining the Philippines’ upward economic trajectory and restored distinction on the global platform," he said.

In a separate Independence Day message to Filipino-Americans in Illinois, Aquino said Independence Day should "rouse in each of us the passion for country and fellowmen."

"Let our gatherings underscore the promise of democracy, enriched by our efforts to rid our communities of the vestige of decades of corruption, and by our collective determination to empower all our kababayans," he said.

Binay message

The embassy in Thailand's website also featured a statement from Binay, who said the war now is "not against an external oppressor but against poverty, which for years has been the malevolent spirit haunting our people."

"If we want to be truly free, we must provide the poor with the means to be able to live meaningful lives ... I am confident that as before, through our close cooperation, we can once again break the chains of poverty that prevent our flight," Binay said. — Joel Locsin /LBG, GMA News

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